While visiting Mrs Needleman, in order to write the obituary for her husband, Josephine Sheehan suddenly realises how empty her life is. If she died, she'd only be missed by her family, her Labradoodle Genghis and her three dog-walking pals. Deciding to be proactive and acting on advice from Mrs Needleman, Josie writes a list of qualities she's looking for in a man and sends it out into the ether. Not too many minutes later Josie meets Rick Rousseau, and as a sudden brief burst of energy flows through her, she realises he's her "list" man. Rick Rousseau's had a dramatic and challenging past and as a result has sworn off dating and relationships, but he too felt the energy when they met. Will Rick find the courage to share his dark secrets with Josie, recalling a past, a past that's not yet over...

Ain't Too Proud To Beg is a thoroughly enjoyable contemporary romance. Yet again Susan Donovan surprised me, pleasantly so; early in the book I thought I knew exactly how the story would play out, happily I was wrong. She regularly manages to pop in an unexpected twist or two, to delight the reader and enrich the storyline. Rick and Josie are likeable characters; people you could see yourself being friends with. I also really liked the supporting characters, particularly "Teeny" and Genghis. I always look forward to a new book from Susan Donovan, and this story didn't disappoint. Be sure to pack Ain't Too Proud To Beg in your beach bag this summer (if you're in the southern hemisphere like I am) or if in a cooler climate, curl up in your favourite comfy chair in a warm sport and settle in for a wonderful read.

Reviewed by: Kara